July 2026
Summer heat can sneak up on you, leaving you feeling dizzy, weak, and unwell. Learn the difference between dehydration and heat exhaustion — and how to respond.
Dehydration symptoms
Dehydration happens when your body loses more fluid than it takes in. In hot weather, this can happen fast, especially if you’re sweating. Signs include dry mouth, dark urine, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and lack of sweat. To treat:
- Move to a cool spot out of the sun.
- Drink water or an electrolyte-rich sports drink.
- Rest and avoid further exertion until you feel better.
Heat exhaustion symptoms
Heat exhaustion occurs when your body becomes overwhelmed by heat and humidity and can’t cool itself.
Signs include dizziness, weakness, nausea, excessive sweating, and feeling increasingly hot.
What to do:
- Get out of the heat and sun immediately.
- If possible, take a cool shower. Otherwise, loosen clothing and apply cool, wet cloths to the skin.
- Drink water or an electrolyte-rich sports drink.
Heat stroke symptoms
If heat exhaustion isn’t treated promptly, it can quickly progress to heat stroke — a medical emergency. Warning signs include confusion, slurred speech, high body temperature (104 or above), hot, dry skin, and potentially loss of consciousness. If you experience these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
